Gilberto Alves Brazilian footballer, right winger Date of Birth: 24.12.1950 Country: Brazil

1. Gil: Brazilian Football Legend
2. Early Career and Fluminense Success
3. International Career and Club Moves
4. Coaching Career

Gil: Brazilian Football Legend

Gilberto Alves dos Santos, better known as Gil, was a renowned Brazilian footballer who played as a right winger.

Early Career and Fluminense Success

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Gil began his career at Villa Nova where he won the 1971 second division title. He moved to Comercial in 1972 and a year later to Fluminense.

Gil's breakthrough came in his second year with "Flu." He scored 11 goals, becoming the fourth-highest scorer in the São Paulo state championship and leading the team to victory in 1974. He repeated the triumph the following year.

As part of Fluminense's famous "Three Color Machine," Gil formed a formidable partnership with midfielder Roberto Rivelino. Known for his physical play and ability to outmuscle opponents, he earned the nickname "The Bull."

International Career and Club Moves

Gil's impressive performances earned him a place in the Brazilian national team from 1976 to 1978. He made 40 appearances for his country, scoring 12 goals. His most notable achievement was scoring two goals in the final of the 1976 U.S. Bicentennial Cup against Italy. Gil also represented Brazil at the 1978 World Cup.

After leaving Fluminense, Gil played for Botafogo, Corinthians, Real Murcia in Spain, Coritiba, and Farense in Portugal.

Coaching Career

Following his retirement as a player, Gil embarked on a coaching career. He guided several clubs, including Botafogo, Sport Recife, and Fortaleza. In 2008, he briefly coached Marília and later led Portuguesa Santista in 2009.